Gillette, Wyoming – Tragedy struck an industrial site on Highway 59 near mile marker 78 in Gillette, Wyoming, where a woman lost her life due to a chemical explosion, as reported by the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office.
The victim, identified as Denice Downing, a 47-year-old tanker operator, was present at the site to transport a mixture of hydrochloric acid and water that was being injected into a well, according to the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Cpl. Josh Knittel.
During the operation, workers detected what they believed to be a chemical reaction and noticed increasing pressure. As a precaution, the workers initiated an evacuation. Unfortunately, before they could fully clear the area, the tanker exploded, causing severe damage and ultimately taking Downing’s life.
Authorities confirmed that Downing succumbed instantly to the blast, with details of her autopsy set to be revealed in the coming days to determine the exact cause of death. The devastating incident also involved another worker who miraculously escaped unharmed. The destruction was contained mainly to the tanker and a nearby flatbed work truck, according to Knittel.
Investigations into the cause of the explosion are ongoing, with one theory suggesting that remnants of a previous chemical within the tank may have triggered a dangerous reaction with the hydrochloric acid. However, conclusive findings will only be reached once further testing is conducted, Knittel stated.